Cumulonimbus Capillatus

If a storm is coming, you will no doubt recognize the cumulonimbus clouds in the sky. These large, towering clouds come in various forms. The cumulonimbus capillatus is one of these types that you could possibly catch a glimpse of.

What are cumulonimbus capillatus clouds?

The cumulonimbus capillatus clouds are a type of cumulonimbus cloud that are very common in thunderstorms. These clouds usually produce substantial thunder and lightning, and of course precipitation. They are often symbols of fairly mature and steady thunderstorms, though they can sometimes transform into more dangerous storms with tornado capabilities.

What height are cumulonimbus capillatus clouds found?

These clouds are large and towering, so one single cloud can often range through much of the sky. They usually have their base fairly low, around 5,000 feet on average. But the top of the cloud can run 15,000 feet above this – or even more. At extremes, some of these massive clouds can reach up to 75,000 feet in the air.

Classification of cumulonimbus capillatus clouds

This particular type of cloud is actually a species of cumulonimbus clouds. It is signified by a very specific shape and is considered the most mature of all the types of cumulonimbus clouds. It has a specific subtype as well signified by a flat top. This is called the cumulonimbus incus and is much rarer.

How are cumulonimbus capillatus clouds formed?

Cumulonimbus capillatus clouds start out the same way any other cumulonimbus cloud starts. It is a storm cloud, so when the air becomes unstable and a storm begins, these towering clouds form in the sky. When the storm becomes very regular, the cloud will take a significant mushroom shape without sharp edges or puffiness that is very significant and recognizable.

What do cumulonimbus capillatus clouds look like?

Cumulonimbus capillatus clouds have a very significant appearance. Here are some of their recognizable features:

• They are tall and towering.
• These incredibly large clouds have a recognizable mushroom shape.
• The top of them is fibrous, which happens with a storm cloud very often.
• Sometimes, the top of this cloud can flatten out in a sort of anvil shape.

How common are cumulonimbus capillatus clouds?

This particular cloud is a little more common than many other cumulonimbus clouds. These are found in mature storms, and are very easy to see because of their massive size. They have a very significant and easily recognizable shape, but the conditions that create them are fairly common.

Where can I see cumulonimbus capillatus clouds?

Spotting one of these types of clouds can be pretty simple for the most part. Of course, the anvil-shaped subtype is much harder to locate, but the general type with the fibrous top is pretty easy to recognize. If you go outside in a pretty steady storm that has considerable wind and rain, take a look up at the sky. It will be covered with massive cumulonimbus clouds. If you find one with a fibrous top, then you are no doubt looking at a cumulonimbus capillatus cloud.

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